Smallish digital camera with a decent viewfinder
Posted by: Rockingdoc on 04 June 2007
Smallish digital camera with a decent viewfinder doesn't seem a lot to ask, but it doesn't seem to exist. I like my Leica D-Lux2, but can't see the screen without reading glasses now. Don't mind going a bit larger/heavier, but don't want to lug my DSLR about all the time. Leica M8 would do the trick, but that is too expensive (even for an overpaid GP). Ricoh GR should have been good, but gets poor reviews, Canon G7? Any suggestions?
Posted on: 26 June 2007 by Huwge
Rico - Leica filters were formerly made by B+W. The new range are made by a Japanese (iirc) firm and are thinner. The B+W are cheaper and the only issue with their extra thickness is that it makes the hood on the 24mm lens a bit of a wrestle.
The problem is not chromatic aberration, but an IR sensitivity created by Leica's decision not to have anti-aliasing. There is much on the web. I guess the majority would say that this is still inexcusable in such an expensive device, but it is a joy to use. If I had not already enjoyed rangefinder photography, I probably would have not been an early adapter. In many respects, it's no different to being a Mac user. If I wasn't so happy with the way the share price has developed I would consider myself, a beta tester paying to use my iPods, laptops, etc.
Chris - Robert White are a good source for the 486 uv / ir cut filters and I know that they do a 60mm. There is a German e-Bay seller that is very good and I have always had a speedy turnaround. Decent prices as well. I will try to find the address, but I am not home this week.
Edot - knew about the problem and didn't think it was an issue. If you like to shoot people wearing synthetic black in bright, synthetic light ymmv
Posted on: 26 June 2007 by Chris Kelly
huw
I hope you brought your waterproofs with you!
I'll take a look at the Robert White site. Thanks for that thought.
The M8 images look great. I have used the file to try to compare C1, LR and Aperture as RAW converters. More of that work tonight.
Other than the IR issue, the M8 does nothing but please me. It is a joy to handle and the mmi is so easy to use.
I can see this being my primary camera now. I love using the R9/DMR but for me it is now better tripod-mounted, whereas the M8 is just so easy to carry.
have a good trip.
Posted on: 26 June 2007 by Rico
Huw, thanks for your patient explanation. I am very much on the fringe of leicahood (oh yes a soft pun) and look on in awe. Consequently I have little in-depth knowledge; thanks for sharing.
